The Drunk Side of Trust: Generalized and Instantaneous Trust at Gathering Events

Abstract

We present novel evidence on the nexus between alcohol intake and trust at a large cultural gathering event. Throughout six editions, we interviewed nearly 2,000 attendees and collected an objective measure of alcohol intake (Blood Alcohol Concentration, BAC) using electronic breathalyzers and self-perceived measures of intoxication. We elicited different self-reported trust measures toward eventgoers and the general public. While alcohol intoxication is not correlated with trust toward the general public, there is a positive and significant nexus between alcohol intake and trust toward the other participants in the event (Instantaneous trust). Only a small part of this effect (15%) is driven by an increased trust in other drinkers at the event. Taken together, these findings indicate endogenous group formation regarding alcohol intake.

Keywords: Cultural event, Gathering event, Instantaneous trust, Generalized trust, Blood alcohol concentration, Tourist.

JEL Classification: A13, D91, Z10.